2/15/2009
Yes, They Could, Yes, They Did
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/15/opinion/15friedman.html?_r=1&emc=eta1
Global Warming Underestimated
Global warming 'underestimated'
The severity of global warming over the next century will be worse than forecast, a leading climate scientist warns.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7890988.stm
The severity of global warming over the next century will be worse than forecast, a leading climate scientist warns.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7890988.stm
2/14/2009
Conservation Insider Bulletin, CCNC
Conservation Insider Bulletin
Published weekly for the Conservation Council of North Carolina
Conservation News to Peruse & Use
Editor: Dan Besse, cib@conservationcouncilnc.org
February 13, 2009
What's green in the stimulus? We may have that answer, plus more news, this week in CIB:
National environmental advocates are praising the reported results of the House-Senate conference committee compromise on the stimulus package, reached surprisingly swiftly this week. As environmentalists had hoped from the start, the huge economy-boosting spending bill includes "game-changing" appropriations for energy efficiency and renewable energy development, and a big fiscal shot for public transit as well.
In the legislative process, it's always dangerous to count one's dollars before the final signature is attached. As a consequence, this week's report comes with the caveat that the proposal must pass final votes in the House and Senate (and get the president's signature, which in this case is assured) before it is truly a done deal. With that caution, however, it appears that we now know the major components of the legislation.
In a statement released 2/12/09, League of Conservation Voters president Gene Karpinski praised the bill's contents, as reported based on conference committee deliberations. He said that it appeared that the conference report "kept the best aspects of the House and Senate versions of the bill. Tens of billions of dollars for clean energy, energy efficiency, public transportation, scientific research and a smart energy grid remain. Tens of billions set to be wasted on coal and other outdated energy sources were removed."
Karpinski also said, "As the first act of a new Congress to promote clean energy and reduce global warming pollution, this bill bodes well for the future."
The positive analysis by Karpinski and other environmental advocates is based on an understanding that the compromise bill retains over $28 billion for a series of major renewable energy and energy efficiency programs and initiatives, plus over $17 billion for rail and other public transit initiatives. Apparently axed during conference negotiations was a Senate proposal to throw $50 billion in loan guarantees at nuclear and coal power development. Again, we'll hold our final judgment until the ink is dry on the president's signature, but if these reports turn out to be accurate, we'll join in pronouncing this to be a green stimulus.
Legislative Watch: House Environmental Committees: Signup for Hot List
House Environmental Committees: Last week we reported on key Senate committee leadership. This week, it's the House's turn. As one might expect from the larger chamber, there are more committees of interest, including some newly created ones. Under Speaker Joe Hackney, there are now eight committees in need of note from an environmental basis:
--Two are Appropriations Subcommittees: Natural and Economic Resources, and Transportation. NER is co-chaired by Reps. Pricey Harrison (D-Guilford), Garland Pierce (D-Scotland), and Edith Warren (D-Pitt). Transportation is co-chaired by Reps. Nelson Cole (D-Rockingham) and Grier Martin (D-Wake). This puts two particularly strong environmental legislators (Harrison and Martin) at the head of the two key appropriations subcommittees in the House.
--Six other committees are general subject-area jurisdiction entities: Energy and Energy Efficiency, Environment and Natural Resources, Marine Resources and Aquaculture, Transportation, and Water Resources and Infrastructure. We won't attempt to lay out in this edition a comprehensive listing of the designated leaders, but here are some items of note. Rep. Angela Bryant (D-Nash) is the new chair of Energy, taking over from Pricey Harrison. Rep. Becky Carney (D-Mecklenburg) chairs Transportation—which may be significant in placing a representative of the state's only (so far) county with light rail in legislative transportation leadership. Rep. Cullie Tarleton (D-Watauga) chairs the newly created Water Resources and Infrastructure committee, and Rep. Lucy Allen (D-Franklin) chairs the Environment and Natural Resources committee.
For a complete listing of the chairs, vice chairs, and members of all House committees, you can go to http://projects.newsobserver.com/sites/projects.newsobserver.com/files/house-committees-2009.pdf and see where your representative sits.
To recap from last week, key Senate chairs are the following: Agriculture, Environment, and Natural Resources—Bob Atwater (D-Chatham); Transportation—Larry Shaw (D-Cumberland); Energy, Science, and Technology—Katie Dorsett (D-Guilford) and Joe Sam Queen (D-Haywood); Appropriations—Linda Garrou (D-Forsyth), Charlie Albertson (D-Duplin), A.B. Swindell (D-Nash), and Charlie Dannelly (D-Mecklenburg).
Signup for Hot List: CIB recipients—would you also like to receive Hot List, the Conservation Council's periodic email bulletin offering a more extended review of pending state legislation of environmental interest? Hot List comes out every week or two during the state legislative session. If you'd like to be added to that list, please just send an email with "subscribe Hot List" in the subject line to CCNC executive director Carrie Clark at carrie@conservationcouncilnc.org.
Common Agenda Detailed: Community Conservation Assistance Program (CCAP)
This week, we also start a more detailed look at some of the items comprising the "Common Agenda" of citizen environmental groups for this year's General Assembly. FYI, CCNC lobbyist Dan Crawford brings you this summary of the Community Conservation Assistance Program (CCAP):
Contaminated stormwater runoff is the number one cause of impaired surface waters in North Carolina, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Stormwater is rain runoff from developed areas, such as roads, roofs, parking lots and driveways, that pollutes rivers, lakes and streams and triggers flooding in towns and neighborhoods.
The Community Conservation Assistance Program (CCAP) is a voluntary, incentive-based program to install stormwater best management practices on urban, suburban and rural lands. CCAP is administered by the N.C. Division of Soil and Water Conservation, which provides educational, technical and financial assistance to landowners through its network of Soil and Water Conservation Districts. Homeowners, businesses, schools, churches and other civic and community groups may be reimbursed up to 75 percent for approved stormwater retrofit projects.
CCAP was created by the General Assembly in 2006 with the support of realtor, homebuilder and environmental organizations, the NC League of Municipalities and the NC Association of County Commissioners. Currently 65 of the 96 Soil and Water Conservation Districts in North Carolina participate in CCAP.
Funding for CCAP will help stimulate the economy by providing new jobs for contractors and landscapers to conduct “public works” projects that retrofit existing sources of stormwater. This green jobs program will result in cleaner rivers, lakes and streams statewide. The Common Agenda this year asks for $3.4 million to support green jobs and water quality through CCAP.
Coast Watch: Salazar Extends Offshore Energy Study
Interior Secretary Ken Salazar this week continued revisiting some of the late Bush blunders, as he turned attention to the 11th-hour Bush Interior Department's effort to crank up offshore drill leasing on a wide front. Instead of simply stopping the process, Salazar extended the public comment period by six months—and expanded its focus to include "offshore energy" options beyond drilling, including offshore wind energy and wave energy. (Offshore wind energy is considered one of the major untapped resources for renewable energy in the United States.)
In announcing the revised public comment plans, Salazar was blunt in his criticism of the Bush initiative, which was published in the Federal Register on the last day of business before Obama's inauguration. Salazar called the Bush proposal "a headlong rush of the worst kind", "a process rigged to force hurried decisions based on bad information", and "a process tilted toward the usual energy players while renewable energy companies and the interests of American consumers and taxpayers were overlooked." (New York Times, 2/10/09.) We can't argue with that assessment.
Administrative Watch: DENR Assistants Named
The N.C. Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) this week announced the rest of its new leadership team under the Perdue Administration and DENR Secretary Dee Freeman. Manley Wilder, previously the DENR assistant secretary for natural resources, has been moved up to chief deputy/chief operating officer. Wilder previously had been director of the N.C. Div. of Soil and Water Conservation, following a 35-year career with the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service.
Filling the position of Assistant Secretary for Natural Resources will be a veteran conservation advocate, David Knight, who will be coming from his current position as director of government relations for the Nature Conservancy. In his new state post, Knight will supervise the DENR divisions and work groups of Soil and Water Conservation, Forest Resources, Marine Fisheries, Parks and Recreation, the Ecosystem Enhancement Program, and Natural Resources Planning and Conservation.
Career state environmental staff person Robin W. Smith will continue as Assistant Secretary for the Environment, which position oversees the divisions of Water Quality, Air Quality, and Coastal Management, among others. Also continuing in their current roles will be Elizabeth Biser, Director of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, and Diana Kees, Communications Director.
Mary Penny Thompson, DENR's general counsel, will retain that job and take on a dual role as Assistant Secretary of Information Technology.
Published weekly for the Conservation Council of North Carolina
Conservation News to Peruse & Use
Editor: Dan Besse, cib@conservationcouncilnc.org
February 13, 2009
What's green in the stimulus? We may have that answer, plus more news, this week in CIB:
National environmental advocates are praising the reported results of the House-Senate conference committee compromise on the stimulus package, reached surprisingly swiftly this week. As environmentalists had hoped from the start, the huge economy-boosting spending bill includes "game-changing" appropriations for energy efficiency and renewable energy development, and a big fiscal shot for public transit as well.
In the legislative process, it's always dangerous to count one's dollars before the final signature is attached. As a consequence, this week's report comes with the caveat that the proposal must pass final votes in the House and Senate (and get the president's signature, which in this case is assured) before it is truly a done deal. With that caution, however, it appears that we now know the major components of the legislation.
In a statement released 2/12/09, League of Conservation Voters president Gene Karpinski praised the bill's contents, as reported based on conference committee deliberations. He said that it appeared that the conference report "kept the best aspects of the House and Senate versions of the bill. Tens of billions of dollars for clean energy, energy efficiency, public transportation, scientific research and a smart energy grid remain. Tens of billions set to be wasted on coal and other outdated energy sources were removed."
Karpinski also said, "As the first act of a new Congress to promote clean energy and reduce global warming pollution, this bill bodes well for the future."
The positive analysis by Karpinski and other environmental advocates is based on an understanding that the compromise bill retains over $28 billion for a series of major renewable energy and energy efficiency programs and initiatives, plus over $17 billion for rail and other public transit initiatives. Apparently axed during conference negotiations was a Senate proposal to throw $50 billion in loan guarantees at nuclear and coal power development. Again, we'll hold our final judgment until the ink is dry on the president's signature, but if these reports turn out to be accurate, we'll join in pronouncing this to be a green stimulus.
Legislative Watch: House Environmental Committees: Signup for Hot List
House Environmental Committees: Last week we reported on key Senate committee leadership. This week, it's the House's turn. As one might expect from the larger chamber, there are more committees of interest, including some newly created ones. Under Speaker Joe Hackney, there are now eight committees in need of note from an environmental basis:
--Two are Appropriations Subcommittees: Natural and Economic Resources, and Transportation. NER is co-chaired by Reps. Pricey Harrison (D-Guilford), Garland Pierce (D-Scotland), and Edith Warren (D-Pitt). Transportation is co-chaired by Reps. Nelson Cole (D-Rockingham) and Grier Martin (D-Wake). This puts two particularly strong environmental legislators (Harrison and Martin) at the head of the two key appropriations subcommittees in the House.
--Six other committees are general subject-area jurisdiction entities: Energy and Energy Efficiency, Environment and Natural Resources, Marine Resources and Aquaculture, Transportation, and Water Resources and Infrastructure. We won't attempt to lay out in this edition a comprehensive listing of the designated leaders, but here are some items of note. Rep. Angela Bryant (D-Nash) is the new chair of Energy, taking over from Pricey Harrison. Rep. Becky Carney (D-Mecklenburg) chairs Transportation—which may be significant in placing a representative of the state's only (so far) county with light rail in legislative transportation leadership. Rep. Cullie Tarleton (D-Watauga) chairs the newly created Water Resources and Infrastructure committee, and Rep. Lucy Allen (D-Franklin) chairs the Environment and Natural Resources committee.
For a complete listing of the chairs, vice chairs, and members of all House committees, you can go to http://projects.newsobserver.com/sites/projects.newsobserver.com/files/house-committees-2009.pdf and see where your representative sits.
To recap from last week, key Senate chairs are the following: Agriculture, Environment, and Natural Resources—Bob Atwater (D-Chatham); Transportation—Larry Shaw (D-Cumberland); Energy, Science, and Technology—Katie Dorsett (D-Guilford) and Joe Sam Queen (D-Haywood); Appropriations—Linda Garrou (D-Forsyth), Charlie Albertson (D-Duplin), A.B. Swindell (D-Nash), and Charlie Dannelly (D-Mecklenburg).
Signup for Hot List: CIB recipients—would you also like to receive Hot List, the Conservation Council's periodic email bulletin offering a more extended review of pending state legislation of environmental interest? Hot List comes out every week or two during the state legislative session. If you'd like to be added to that list, please just send an email with "subscribe Hot List" in the subject line to CCNC executive director Carrie Clark at carrie@conservationcouncilnc.org.
Common Agenda Detailed: Community Conservation Assistance Program (CCAP)
This week, we also start a more detailed look at some of the items comprising the "Common Agenda" of citizen environmental groups for this year's General Assembly. FYI, CCNC lobbyist Dan Crawford brings you this summary of the Community Conservation Assistance Program (CCAP):
Contaminated stormwater runoff is the number one cause of impaired surface waters in North Carolina, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Stormwater is rain runoff from developed areas, such as roads, roofs, parking lots and driveways, that pollutes rivers, lakes and streams and triggers flooding in towns and neighborhoods.
The Community Conservation Assistance Program (CCAP) is a voluntary, incentive-based program to install stormwater best management practices on urban, suburban and rural lands. CCAP is administered by the N.C. Division of Soil and Water Conservation, which provides educational, technical and financial assistance to landowners through its network of Soil and Water Conservation Districts. Homeowners, businesses, schools, churches and other civic and community groups may be reimbursed up to 75 percent for approved stormwater retrofit projects.
CCAP was created by the General Assembly in 2006 with the support of realtor, homebuilder and environmental organizations, the NC League of Municipalities and the NC Association of County Commissioners. Currently 65 of the 96 Soil and Water Conservation Districts in North Carolina participate in CCAP.
Funding for CCAP will help stimulate the economy by providing new jobs for contractors and landscapers to conduct “public works” projects that retrofit existing sources of stormwater. This green jobs program will result in cleaner rivers, lakes and streams statewide. The Common Agenda this year asks for $3.4 million to support green jobs and water quality through CCAP.
Coast Watch: Salazar Extends Offshore Energy Study
Interior Secretary Ken Salazar this week continued revisiting some of the late Bush blunders, as he turned attention to the 11th-hour Bush Interior Department's effort to crank up offshore drill leasing on a wide front. Instead of simply stopping the process, Salazar extended the public comment period by six months—and expanded its focus to include "offshore energy" options beyond drilling, including offshore wind energy and wave energy. (Offshore wind energy is considered one of the major untapped resources for renewable energy in the United States.)
In announcing the revised public comment plans, Salazar was blunt in his criticism of the Bush initiative, which was published in the Federal Register on the last day of business before Obama's inauguration. Salazar called the Bush proposal "a headlong rush of the worst kind", "a process rigged to force hurried decisions based on bad information", and "a process tilted toward the usual energy players while renewable energy companies and the interests of American consumers and taxpayers were overlooked." (New York Times, 2/10/09.) We can't argue with that assessment.
Administrative Watch: DENR Assistants Named
The N.C. Dept. of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) this week announced the rest of its new leadership team under the Perdue Administration and DENR Secretary Dee Freeman. Manley Wilder, previously the DENR assistant secretary for natural resources, has been moved up to chief deputy/chief operating officer. Wilder previously had been director of the N.C. Div. of Soil and Water Conservation, following a 35-year career with the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service.
Filling the position of Assistant Secretary for Natural Resources will be a veteran conservation advocate, David Knight, who will be coming from his current position as director of government relations for the Nature Conservancy. In his new state post, Knight will supervise the DENR divisions and work groups of Soil and Water Conservation, Forest Resources, Marine Fisheries, Parks and Recreation, the Ecosystem Enhancement Program, and Natural Resources Planning and Conservation.
Career state environmental staff person Robin W. Smith will continue as Assistant Secretary for the Environment, which position oversees the divisions of Water Quality, Air Quality, and Coastal Management, among others. Also continuing in their current roles will be Elizabeth Biser, Director of Legislative and Intergovernmental Affairs, and Diana Kees, Communications Director.
Mary Penny Thompson, DENR's general counsel, will retain that job and take on a dual role as Assistant Secretary of Information Technology.
High Fructose Corn Syrup + Mercury
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/02/14/Most-Common-Source-of-Calories-in-US-is-LOADED-With-Mercury.aspx
Climate Change, CO2
Bleak forecast on fishery stocks
Changing ocean temperatures will force many fish species to migrate towards the poles, hitting fish stocks, scientists warn.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7887536.stm
CO2 reduction treaties useless'
A new report says that treaties, such as the Kyoto Protocol, which aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, are useless.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/7888994.stm
Changing ocean temperatures will force many fish species to migrate towards the poles, hitting fish stocks, scientists warn.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7887536.stm
CO2 reduction treaties useless'
A new report says that treaties, such as the Kyoto Protocol, which aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, are useless.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/7888994.stm
2/13/2009
2/12/2009
2/11/2009
Sustainable Sandhills Film Series, Feb. 17
Sustainable Sandhills Introduces Free Film Series in Moore County
Sustainable Sandhills is kicking off a free Film Series focused on sustainability-related topics. The desire of Sustainable Sandhills is to heighten public awareness of pressing sustainability issues and to encourage community dialogue following each film.
In anticipation of our upcoming Urban Farm Tour (to be held in Moore and Cumberland Counties on Saturday, April 11th), the first film will look at food-related issues and is titled "Asparagus! Stalking the American Life." It will be shown Tuesday, February 17th, at Sandhills Community College's Dempsey Student Center, upstairs in the Clement Dining Room from 6:30-8:00 PM. A trailer of the film was shown at our Moore County Community Action Team Meeting on January 29th, which sparked the interest of the group and also received several good laughs. This promises to be an educational yet entertaining film.
The Film Series will be held on a bi-monthly schedule, alternating with the Sustainable Sandhills Moore County Community Action Team Meetings. Each film will be aired from 6:30-8:00 PM at the same location, and the 2009 schedule is as follows: February 17th, April 14th, June 16th, August 18th, October 20th, and December 15th.
Bring the family! All ages are invited to attend and it’s FREE!!!. We look forward to seeing you there!
Sustainable Sandhills is kicking off a free Film Series focused on sustainability-related topics. The desire of Sustainable Sandhills is to heighten public awareness of pressing sustainability issues and to encourage community dialogue following each film.
In anticipation of our upcoming Urban Farm Tour (to be held in Moore and Cumberland Counties on Saturday, April 11th), the first film will look at food-related issues and is titled "Asparagus! Stalking the American Life." It will be shown Tuesday, February 17th, at Sandhills Community College's Dempsey Student Center, upstairs in the Clement Dining Room from 6:30-8:00 PM. A trailer of the film was shown at our Moore County Community Action Team Meeting on January 29th, which sparked the interest of the group and also received several good laughs. This promises to be an educational yet entertaining film.
The Film Series will be held on a bi-monthly schedule, alternating with the Sustainable Sandhills Moore County Community Action Team Meetings. Each film will be aired from 6:30-8:00 PM at the same location, and the 2009 schedule is as follows: February 17th, April 14th, June 16th, August 18th, October 20th, and December 15th.
Bring the family! All ages are invited to attend and it’s FREE!!!. We look forward to seeing you there!
Incubator Farm Info
http://allalongtheedge.blogspot.com/2009/02/building-new-farm-incubator-programs.html
2/10/2009
Sustainability Winning Over Naysayers
http://www.southbendtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090209/TBW/902060239/1104/Biz
Field to Market Sustainability
http://www.grainnet.com/articles/Keystone_Alliance_Issues_Field_to_Market_Report_on_Ag_Sustainability-70464.html
Battle Hymn Rewritten
From Baptist Peacemaker, January-March, 2009
Battle Hymn of the Republic, Revised
by Doug Norton
My eyes have seen the glory of the providence of God,
In the bounty of the vintage and the beauty of the sod;
In infusing faithful light along each path that we have trod:
God's love goes on and on.
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
God's love goes on and on.
We have seen God in the star fires and the emptiness of space;
We have felt God at the altar and within a friend’s embrace;
We can read God’s righteous sentence in each loving human face;
God’s grace goes on and on.
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
God’s grace goes on and on.
God has sounded forth the music to which every heart can beat
In a symphony of living in a harmony complete.
Oh, be swift, my soul, to sing along! Be jubilant, my feet!
God’s truth goes on and on.
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
God’s truth goes on and on.
In the beauty of the living of a life in Galilee
Comes a glorious glimpse of Godliness for all the world to see.
Just as God’s light shines through Jesus, let us all God’s prism be:
God’s light shines on and on.
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
God’s light shines on and on.
Doug Norton is a member of Central Baptist Church in Wayne, PA. These lyrics were written in June, 2008
Battle Hymn of the Republic, Revised
by Doug Norton
My eyes have seen the glory of the providence of God,
In the bounty of the vintage and the beauty of the sod;
In infusing faithful light along each path that we have trod:
God's love goes on and on.
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
God's love goes on and on.
We have seen God in the star fires and the emptiness of space;
We have felt God at the altar and within a friend’s embrace;
We can read God’s righteous sentence in each loving human face;
God’s grace goes on and on.
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
God’s grace goes on and on.
God has sounded forth the music to which every heart can beat
In a symphony of living in a harmony complete.
Oh, be swift, my soul, to sing along! Be jubilant, my feet!
God’s truth goes on and on.
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
God’s truth goes on and on.
In the beauty of the living of a life in Galilee
Comes a glorious glimpse of Godliness for all the world to see.
Just as God’s light shines through Jesus, let us all God’s prism be:
God’s light shines on and on.
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
Glory, glory, hallelujah!
God’s light shines on and on.
Doug Norton is a member of Central Baptist Church in Wayne, PA. These lyrics were written in June, 2008
Diseases Linked to Soft Drinks
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2009/02/10/10-Diseases-Linked-To-Soda.aspx
2/09/2009
War on Women
Playwright, V-Day Founder Eve Ensler and Congolese Gynecologist Dr. Denis Mukwege Raise Awareness on War on Women in DRC
Tens of thousands of women have been brutally raped in the DRC as part of an ongoing internal conflict. We speak with playwright and V-Day founder Eve Ensler and Congolese gynecologist Dr. Denis Mukwege, founder of one of the only hospitals that treats victims of rape and mutilation.
Dr. Mukwege has helped over 21,000 women in the past decade and was named "African of the Year" by a Nigerian newspaper last month.
www.democracynow.org/2009/2/9/playwright_v_day_founder_eve_ensler
Tens of thousands of women have been brutally raped in the DRC as part of an ongoing internal conflict. We speak with playwright and V-Day founder Eve Ensler and Congolese gynecologist Dr. Denis Mukwege, founder of one of the only hospitals that treats victims of rape and mutilation.
Dr. Mukwege has helped over 21,000 women in the past decade and was named "African of the Year" by a Nigerian newspaper last month.
www.democracynow.org/2009/2/9/playwright_v_day_founder_eve_ensler
NC Food Folk to Raleigh, Mar. 2, 3
http://allalongtheedge.blogspot.com/2009/02/calling-all-nc-food-folk-to-raleigh.html
2/05/2009
South Central Farm - The Movie
http://allalongtheedge.blogspot.com/2009/02/south-central-farm-movie.html
Integrating Food Production
http://www.buildinggreen.com/auth/article.cfm/2009/1/29/Growing-Food-Locally-Integrating-Agriculture-Into-the-Built-Environment/
Concert, Feb. 7, Aberdeen
Stacey Earle and Mark Stuart are at it again with their Gearle Records 2008 releases, “Stacey Earle & Mark Stuart Town Square” and Mark Stuart “Left of Nashville available at shows only.A show not to miss, Stacey and Mark reach back and grab songs of the past, then fast forward to present and into the future. They will be performing from their own new solo releases as well during their tour. Both Stacey and Mark are veteran Dukes, of Steve Earle and the Dukes.
Guitar workshop 3-5 pm Saturday with Mark Stuart, all levels wlecome. Registration due by 5 pm Feb. 5 please. $40., cash or check.
Tickets at the door cash or check, reservations preferred, or on line, credit or debit card. Adults $12. Children under 12, $6.
Guitar workshop 3-5 pm Saturday with Mark Stuart, all levels wlecome. Registration due by 5 pm Feb. 5 please. $40., cash or check.
Tickets at the door cash or check, reservations preferred, or on line, credit or debit card. Adults $12. Children under 12, $6.
2/04/2009
Anyone Can Do It
http://www.motherearthnews.com/Modern-Homesteading/Raising-Chicks.aspx?utm_source=iPost&utm_medium=email
How Not to Screw Up the Stimulus
http://act.credoaction.com/campaign/stimulus_package/?r_by=2420-1600844-eDD78gx&rc=paste
Rise and Fall of Empire
http://allalongtheedge.blogspot.com/2009/02/rising-and-falling-of-empire.html
Food Film Series Starts Feb. 17
Sustainable Sandhills Introduces Free Film Series in Moore County
Food - It's What's for Dinner!
Sustainable Sandhills is kicking off a free Film Series in February focused on sustainability-related topics. The desire of Sustainable Sandhills is to heighten public awareness of pressing sustainability issues and to encourage community dialogue following each film.
In anticipation of an upcoming Urban Farm Tour (to be held in Moore and Cumberland Counties on Saturday, April 11th), the first two films will look at food-related issues. The first film is "Asparagus: Stalking the American Life". It will be shown Tuesday, February 17th, at Sandhills Community College's Dempsey Student Center, upstairs in the Clement Dining Room from 6:30-8:00 PM. The second film will be shown April 14th, the week following the Urban Farm Tour.
The Film Series will be held on a bi-monthly schedule, alternating with the Sustainable Sandhills Moore County Community Action Team Meetings. Each film will be aired from 6:30-8:00 PM at the same location, and the 2009 schedule is as follows: February 17th, April 14th, June 16th, August 18th, October 20th, and December 15th.
Bring the family! All ages are invited to attend.
For more information please contact:
Heather Brown, (910) 639-7024, brownh@ctc.com
www.SustainableSandhills.org/MooreCounty
Food - It's What's for Dinner!
Sustainable Sandhills is kicking off a free Film Series in February focused on sustainability-related topics. The desire of Sustainable Sandhills is to heighten public awareness of pressing sustainability issues and to encourage community dialogue following each film.
In anticipation of an upcoming Urban Farm Tour (to be held in Moore and Cumberland Counties on Saturday, April 11th), the first two films will look at food-related issues. The first film is "Asparagus: Stalking the American Life". It will be shown Tuesday, February 17th, at Sandhills Community College's Dempsey Student Center, upstairs in the Clement Dining Room from 6:30-8:00 PM. The second film will be shown April 14th, the week following the Urban Farm Tour.
The Film Series will be held on a bi-monthly schedule, alternating with the Sustainable Sandhills Moore County Community Action Team Meetings. Each film will be aired from 6:30-8:00 PM at the same location, and the 2009 schedule is as follows: February 17th, April 14th, June 16th, August 18th, October 20th, and December 15th.
Bring the family! All ages are invited to attend.
For more information please contact:
Heather Brown, (910) 639-7024, brownh@ctc.com
www.SustainableSandhills.org/MooreCounty
1/29/2009
The Green New Deal, Heinberg
http://globalpublicmedia.com/reality_report_talking_with_richard_heinberg_about_the_green_new_deal
Ecopsychology
http://allalongtheedge.blogspot.com/2009/01/ecopsychology.html
[how 'they' make us want what we really never wanted]
[how 'they' make us want what we really never wanted]
Frederick Douglass Coming to SCC
An incredible one man show is coming to Sandhills College Owens Auditorium Wednesday Feb 11 at 7:30 p.m.
It is a presentation of Frederick Douglass and is a powerful and impressive performances. Actor has extensive Broadway, Film, and Opera experience.
It is a presentation of Frederick Douglass and is a powerful and impressive performances. Actor has extensive Broadway, Film, and Opera experience.
1/28/2009
On Tim Geithner, Treas. Sec.
Sanders Votes No on Geithner:
[He's] More of a Part of the Problem...Than the Solution" * We speak with Sen. Bernie Sanders (I–VT) about his decision to vote against Tim Geithner as Treasury Secretary, Obama's $825 billion economic stimulus plan, and why the $700 billion financial bailout amounts to "the greatest financial scandal in the history of this country."
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/1/28/sanders_votes_no_on_geithner_hes
[He's] More of a Part of the Problem...Than the Solution" * We speak with Sen. Bernie Sanders (I–VT) about his decision to vote against Tim Geithner as Treasury Secretary, Obama's $825 billion economic stimulus plan, and why the $700 billion financial bailout amounts to "the greatest financial scandal in the history of this country."
http://www.democracynow.org/2009/1/28/sanders_votes_no_on_geithner_hes
To Release Iraq Minutes
Iraq minutes 'must be released'
The government is ordered to release the minutes of 2003 Cabinet meetings where the invasion of Iraq was discussed.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/politics/7854105.stm
The government is ordered to release the minutes of 2003 Cabinet meetings where the invasion of Iraq was discussed.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/uk_news/politics/7854105.stm
1/27/2009
Civil Disobedience in Climate Change Fight
In Climate Fight, a Time For Civil Disobedience?
By Patty Henetz, Salt Lake Tribune, January 23, 2009.
"Al Gore... in September called for moral lawbreaking.
'If you're a young person looking at the future of this planet and looking at what is being done right now, and not done, I believe we have reached the stage where it is time for civil disobedience to prevent the construction of new coal plants that do not have carbon capture and sequestration,' Gore told the Clinton Global Initiative gathering to loud applause, according to Reuters news service.
Since then, author and environmentalist Bill McKibben and poet Wendell Berry have chimed in. Last month, they wrote an open letter, which has circulated widely on the Web, urging mass civil disobedience against coal in March...
Heeding such calls, organizers are mobilizing for a mass act of nonviolent civil disobedience March 2 to protest coal-fired power plants and the damage industrial pollution has caused to the planet's climate.
'We're hoping and preparing for thousands,' said Matt Leonard, the Greenpeace coordinator for the event. 'It will certainly be the largest such action on climate change in U.S. history. We hope it will be the first of many.'
Protesters will gather at the [coal-fired] Capital Power Plant in Washington -- source of heat and refrigeration for the entire Capitol complex -- walk on to the property, sit down and thereby break the law." For more info go to CapitolClimateAction.com.
--
"Let’s all of us make sure that when we look back, in decades to come, we can say:
We saw the threat.
We responded to the challenge.
We did our bit."
Ed Milliband
By Patty Henetz, Salt Lake Tribune, January 23, 2009.
"Al Gore... in September called for moral lawbreaking.
'If you're a young person looking at the future of this planet and looking at what is being done right now, and not done, I believe we have reached the stage where it is time for civil disobedience to prevent the construction of new coal plants that do not have carbon capture and sequestration,' Gore told the Clinton Global Initiative gathering to loud applause, according to Reuters news service.
Since then, author and environmentalist Bill McKibben and poet Wendell Berry have chimed in. Last month, they wrote an open letter, which has circulated widely on the Web, urging mass civil disobedience against coal in March...
Heeding such calls, organizers are mobilizing for a mass act of nonviolent civil disobedience March 2 to protest coal-fired power plants and the damage industrial pollution has caused to the planet's climate.
'We're hoping and preparing for thousands,' said Matt Leonard, the Greenpeace coordinator for the event. 'It will certainly be the largest such action on climate change in U.S. history. We hope it will be the first of many.'
Protesters will gather at the [coal-fired] Capital Power Plant in Washington -- source of heat and refrigeration for the entire Capitol complex -- walk on to the property, sit down and thereby break the law." For more info go to CapitolClimateAction.com.
--
"Let’s all of us make sure that when we look back, in decades to come, we can say:
We saw the threat.
We responded to the challenge.
We did our bit."
Ed Milliband
Gaia's Garden - Must-have for home gardens
http://www.amazon.com/Gaias-Garden-Guide-Home-Scale-Permaculture/dp/1890132527/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1233089648&sr=1-3
Technology to the Rescue?
http://allalongtheedge.blogspot.com/2009/01/technology-to-rescue-probably-not.html
Importance of Wikipedia
http://www.vtcommons.org/blog/2009/01/24/relocalizing-vermont-controlling-our-history
1/26/2009
1/24/2009
Growing Food on the White House Lawn
http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/01/23/growing-food-on-the-white-house-lawn/
Sustainability = Science
[Sustainbility a useless buzzword without science. Study up!]
http://www.oregonlive.com/events/index.ssf/2009/01/beyond_fact.html
http://www.oregonlive.com/events/index.ssf/2009/01/beyond_fact.html
1/23/2009
What Obama Said and What He Did Not
http://www.regressiveantidote.net/Articles/What_Was_Said,_And_What_Was_Not.html
1/22/2009
Sustainability On Campuses
http://media.www.bcheights.com/media/storage/paper144/news/2009/01/22/News/Sustainability.Takes.Hold.On.Campuses-3593161.shtml
Concert, Jan. 23, SCC
The John Cowan Band
Friday January 23, 8 p.m.
General Admission
Doors open at 7 p.m.
with
David Holtzclaw
There are lots of bluegrass fans in the Sandhills. There are a few people in Moore County who think they don't like bluegrass. That's because they have never heard John Cowan sing. If you are in either category, you need to be at Owens Auditorium of Sandhills Community College this Friday night, January 23rd, at eight o'clock. The Rooster's Wife has teamed up with the college in support of their new athletic teams, the Sandhills Flyers. Let's line their coffers while listening to some fantastic LIVE, LOCAL music!
John writes songs that reach down deep into his personal experience. His voice is instantly recognizable. He was THE voice of New Grass Revival, with Bela Fleck, Sam Bush and Pat Flynn. The group took traditional instruments in new directions and abandoned the costumes and short hair considered to be essential for success as bluegrass artists of the time. They played a wide range of music from Bob Marley to Jerry Lee Lewis with their own translation to bluegrass instruments . The band split up nearly twenty years ago, but their individual talents remain as strong as ever. John Cowan will be here in Moore County Friday night. Don't miss him.
Friday January 23, 8 p.m.
General Admission
Doors open at 7 p.m.
with
David Holtzclaw
There are lots of bluegrass fans in the Sandhills. There are a few people in Moore County who think they don't like bluegrass. That's because they have never heard John Cowan sing. If you are in either category, you need to be at Owens Auditorium of Sandhills Community College this Friday night, January 23rd, at eight o'clock. The Rooster's Wife has teamed up with the college in support of their new athletic teams, the Sandhills Flyers. Let's line their coffers while listening to some fantastic LIVE, LOCAL music!
John writes songs that reach down deep into his personal experience. His voice is instantly recognizable. He was THE voice of New Grass Revival, with Bela Fleck, Sam Bush and Pat Flynn. The group took traditional instruments in new directions and abandoned the costumes and short hair considered to be essential for success as bluegrass artists of the time. They played a wide range of music from Bob Marley to Jerry Lee Lewis with their own translation to bluegrass instruments . The band split up nearly twenty years ago, but their individual talents remain as strong as ever. John Cowan will be here in Moore County Friday night. Don't miss him.
1/21/2009
Be There, 7:00, 1/22, Campbell House
7:00 A Crude Awakening, Campbell House, Sou. Pines
A Crude Awakening: The Oil Crash
(2006) NR
Produced by award-winning filmmakers Basil Gelpke and Ray McCormack, this documentary examines the world's dependency on oil and the impending chaos that's sure to follow when the resource is depleted. Straight from the headlines, this hot-button topic may represent the world's most dire crisis. Through expert interviews, the film spells out in startling detail the challenge we all face and underscores our desperate need for alternative energy.
A Crude Awakening: The Oil Crash
(2006) NR
Produced by award-winning filmmakers Basil Gelpke and Ray McCormack, this documentary examines the world's dependency on oil and the impending chaos that's sure to follow when the resource is depleted. Straight from the headlines, this hot-button topic may represent the world's most dire crisis. Through expert interviews, the film spells out in startling detail the challenge we all face and underscores our desperate need for alternative energy.
Pastured Eggs and Vitamin D
http://www.motherearthnews.com/Relish/Pastured-Eggs-Vitamin-D-Content.aspx?blogid=1508&utm_source=iPost&utm_medium=email
Lunch With the Legends
Lunch with Legends, March 5*---In honor of Women’s History Month, the League of Women Voters of Moore County is planning ‘Lunch with Legends’ for Thursday, March 5, 2009. After a delicious lunch of chicken cordon bleu, at Belle Meade, attendees will be treated to a wonderful program. The Sweet Adeline’s Quartet, ‘Southern Connection’, will perform. Then three women, dressed in costume, will read from the actual writings of Abigail Adams, Eleanor Roosevelt and Carrie Catt. Then there will be a professional rendition of American the Beautiful. Both men and women may reserve a ticket, by calling Ginger Finney, at 673-1330 by February 19. The total cost is $30 each. Funds raised will support voter education efforts of the League. The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan political organization with the goal of improving government and impacting public policy through citizen education and advocacy. On 3/5, the doors to the Belle Meade ballroom will open at 11:30; the luncheon will start at noon. The tables seat six to eight, so get a big group together so a whole table can be used.
1/20/2009
Including Non-Believers
January 20, 2009
Center for Inquiry Leaders Applaud Obama's Progressive and Inclusive Vision for America
President Barack Obama in his history-making Inaugural Address today sounded the clarion call for a more inclusive and progressive America. The President’s speech outlined a largely humanistic agenda, promising to “restore science to its rightful place,” as we collectively face the massive challenges facing us as a country in the twenty-first century. Significantly, in affirming the pluralistic character of American society, President Obama expressly included “non-believers” among Christians, Muslims, Jews and Hindus, as part of the body politic.
“It truly is a historic and remarkable achievement of significance that the President of the United States referred to non-believers in recognition of the growing number of Americans—now numbering tens of millions—who hold no religious affiliation. As far as we are aware, this is the first time this has happened,” said Paul Kurtz, chairman and founder of the Center for Inquiry. “It is also noteworthy that he called for the restoration of science to its rightful place and the application of technology to the improvement of human life. We applaud his courageous optimism in outlining an audacious program for the future,” said Kurtz.
Ronald A. Lindsay, president and CEO of the Center for Inquiry, emphasized the importance of President Obama’s acknowledgment. “For much of American history, agnostics and atheists were denied important civil rights, and in some states, until the early 1960’s, were explicitly forbidden from holding public office. Even after these legal constraints had been removed, nonbelievers were stigmatized or ignored by most politicians. We are encouraged that President Obama has unambiguously indicated he will be the president of all Americans.”
Center for Inquiry Leaders Applaud Obama's Progressive and Inclusive Vision for America
President Barack Obama in his history-making Inaugural Address today sounded the clarion call for a more inclusive and progressive America. The President’s speech outlined a largely humanistic agenda, promising to “restore science to its rightful place,” as we collectively face the massive challenges facing us as a country in the twenty-first century. Significantly, in affirming the pluralistic character of American society, President Obama expressly included “non-believers” among Christians, Muslims, Jews and Hindus, as part of the body politic.
“It truly is a historic and remarkable achievement of significance that the President of the United States referred to non-believers in recognition of the growing number of Americans—now numbering tens of millions—who hold no religious affiliation. As far as we are aware, this is the first time this has happened,” said Paul Kurtz, chairman and founder of the Center for Inquiry. “It is also noteworthy that he called for the restoration of science to its rightful place and the application of technology to the improvement of human life. We applaud his courageous optimism in outlining an audacious program for the future,” said Kurtz.
Ronald A. Lindsay, president and CEO of the Center for Inquiry, emphasized the importance of President Obama’s acknowledgment. “For much of American history, agnostics and atheists were denied important civil rights, and in some states, until the early 1960’s, were explicitly forbidden from holding public office. Even after these legal constraints had been removed, nonbelievers were stigmatized or ignored by most politicians. We are encouraged that President Obama has unambiguously indicated he will be the president of all Americans.”
1/19/2009
1/18/2009
Advice to Obama
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/world_news_america/7814498.stm
[There are others on the site]
[There are others on the site]
1/17/2009
Skaters! and Great Pic
http://www.iht.com/articles/2009/01/16/europe/skaters.php
[We're waking here in Southern Pines, NC, to 7 degrees. Ouch!!]
[We're waking here in Southern Pines, NC, to 7 degrees. Ouch!!]
1/16/2009
To Take the Heat Out
Farms to take heat out of warming
Selecting certain varieties of some common crops could help curb the rise in global temperatures, research suggests.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7831939.stm
Selecting certain varieties of some common crops could help curb the rise in global temperatures, research suggests.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7831939.stm
1/15/2009
Growing Small Farms Calendar
Check out the Growing Small Farms Calendar at http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/chatham/ag/SustAg/calendar.html
for details on these two events:
February 17: High Tunnel Workshop at the Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) in Goldsboro, NC
February 27-March 1, 2009: Real Food, Real Medicine Conference in Chapel Hill, NC. Sponsored by UNC FLO Foods and the NC Association of Naturopathic Physicians.
for details on these two events:
February 17: High Tunnel Workshop at the Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS) in Goldsboro, NC
February 27-March 1, 2009: Real Food, Real Medicine Conference in Chapel Hill, NC. Sponsored by UNC FLO Foods and the NC Association of Naturopathic Physicians.
1/14/2009
Connect in Aberdeen, Jan. 17
Women Connecting through Film
Films by, for and about Women
2 p.m., Saturday, January 17, 2009
Presented by THE ROOSTERS’S WIFE
to benefit the breast cancer fund
fighting the environmental causes of breast cancer.
Join us for Luna Yoga, Santi Yoga Studio, 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines 9 a.m.
$10 suggested donation, call 692-2009 to register
Learn to Hoop it up! Santi Yoga Studio 10:30 $20/class and hoop, suggested donation call 692-2009 to register
House Concert 8:00 p.m.
Suggested donation $15.
Women Connecting through Song
201 Blue St., Aberdeen
featuring:
Laurelyn Dossett Caroline Parsons Sally Spring Tickets available on line : www.theroosterswife.org and at the door.
Donations accepted. (910)944-7502 for more information
Sponsored by : LUNA Bar, Pangea Organics, the Squire’s Pub, Sandhills Feed Supply, Santi Yoga, Blue Street Designs, Aberdeen Parks and Recreation, Taylor David Salon, the Inn at the Bryant House, Heaven on Earth Body Therapies
Films by, for and about Women
2 p.m., Saturday, January 17, 2009
Presented by THE ROOSTERS’S WIFE
to benefit the breast cancer fund
fighting the environmental causes of breast cancer.
Join us for Luna Yoga, Santi Yoga Studio, 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines 9 a.m.
$10 suggested donation, call 692-2009 to register
Learn to Hoop it up! Santi Yoga Studio 10:30 $20/class and hoop, suggested donation call 692-2009 to register
House Concert 8:00 p.m.
Suggested donation $15.
Women Connecting through Song
201 Blue St., Aberdeen
featuring:
Laurelyn Dossett Caroline Parsons Sally Spring Tickets available on line : www.theroosterswife.org and at the door.
Donations accepted. (910)944-7502 for more information
Sponsored by : LUNA Bar, Pangea Organics, the Squire’s Pub, Sandhills Feed Supply, Santi Yoga, Blue Street Designs, Aberdeen Parks and Recreation, Taylor David Salon, the Inn at the Bryant House, Heaven on Earth Body Therapies
1/10/2009
1/09/2009
1/07/2009
Marine Protection
US vows 'huge' marine protection
The US is to establish "the largest area of protected sea in the world", banning fishing and mining, around its Pacific islands. http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7812786.stm
The US is to establish "the largest area of protected sea in the world", banning fishing and mining, around its Pacific islands. http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7812786.stm
1/06/2009
Vote Your Top 10 Ideas
Obama's site asks YOU to vote your top 10 ideas for US policy.
http://www.change.org/ideas
http://www.change.org/ideas
1/04/2009
1/03/2009
Great Essay on Finance
http://www.portfolio.com/news-markets/national-news/portfolio/2008/11/11/The-End-of-Wall-Streets-Boom
12/31/2008
More On "Clean" Coal
Our own Chandra Taylor (Conservation Council of NC) in the news--
updated 8:26 a.m. EST, Wed December 24, 2008
Tennessee sludge spill runs over homes, water
By Samira J. Simone CNN
(CNN) -- A wall holding back 80 acres of sludge from a coal plant in central Tennessee broke this week, spilling more than 500 million gallons of waste into the surrounding area.
Environmental Protection Agency officials are on the scene and expect the cleanup to to take four to six weeks.
The sludge, a byproduct of ash from coal combustion, was contained at a retention site at the Tennessee Valley Authority's power plant in Kingston, about 40 miles east of Knoxville, agency officials said.
The retention wall breached early Monday, sending the sludge downhill and damaging 15 homes. All the residents were evacuated, and three homes were deemed uninhabitable, a TVA spokesman told CNN.
The plant sits on a tributary of the Tennessee River called the Clinch River.
"We deeply regret that a retention wall for ash containment at our Kingston Fossil Plant failed, resulting in an ash slide and damage to nearby homes," TVA said in a statement released Tuesday.
TVA spokesman Gil Francis told CNN that up to 400 acres of land had been coated by the sludge, a bigger area than the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill.
Video footage showed sludge as high as 6 feet, burying porches and garage doors. The slide also downed nearby power lines, though the TVA said power had been restored to the area.
Francis said Environmental Protection Agency officials were on the scene and estimated the cleanup could take four to six weeks.
Some of the goop spilled into the tributary, but preliminary water quality tests show that the drinking water at a nearby treatment plant meets standards.
"I don't want to drink it. It doesn't look healthy to me," Jody Miles, who fishes in the Clinch River, told CNN affiliate WBIR. "Do you reckon they can bring all this life back that's going to die from all this mess?"
Still, there is the potential for more sludge to enter the water supply through waste runoff.
"We're taking steps to stabilize runoff from this incident," Francis said.
Although video from the scene shows dead fish on the banks of the tributary, he said that "in terms of toxicity, until an analysis comes in, you can't call it toxic."
One environmental attorney called that statement "irresponsible." The ash that gives sludge its thick, pudding-like consistency in this case is known as fly ash, which results from the combustion of coal.
Fly ash contains concentrated amounts of mercury, arsenic and benzine, said Chandra Taylor, staff attorney for the Southern Environmental Law Center.
"These things are naturally occurring, but they concentrate in the burning process and the residual is more toxic than it starts," she told CNN.
Appalachian environmentalists compared the mess with another spill eight years ago in eastern Kentucky, where the bottom of a coal sludge impoundment owned by Massey Energy broke into an abandoned underground mine, oozing more than 300 million gallons of coal waste into tributaries.
The water supply for more than 25,000 residents was contaminated, and aquatic life in the area perished. It took months to clean up the spill.
"If the estimates are correct, this spill is one and a half times bigger," said Dave Cooper, an environmental advocate with the Mountaintop Removal Road Show, a traveling program that explains the effect of an extreme form of mining.
While the full scope of the TVA spill is being determined, coal critics are already concerned about its long-term effects.
Cleaning up the mess, which could fill nearly 800 Olympic-size swimming pools, could take months or years, Taylor said.
"We're very concerned about how long it's going to take" to clean the spill, she told CNN.
Cooper agreed, saying, "It's 4, 5 feet deep. How are you going to scoop it up? Where are you going to put it?"
updated 8:26 a.m. EST, Wed December 24, 2008
Tennessee sludge spill runs over homes, water
By Samira J. Simone CNN
(CNN) -- A wall holding back 80 acres of sludge from a coal plant in central Tennessee broke this week, spilling more than 500 million gallons of waste into the surrounding area.
Environmental Protection Agency officials are on the scene and expect the cleanup to to take four to six weeks.
The sludge, a byproduct of ash from coal combustion, was contained at a retention site at the Tennessee Valley Authority's power plant in Kingston, about 40 miles east of Knoxville, agency officials said.
The retention wall breached early Monday, sending the sludge downhill and damaging 15 homes. All the residents were evacuated, and three homes were deemed uninhabitable, a TVA spokesman told CNN.
The plant sits on a tributary of the Tennessee River called the Clinch River.
"We deeply regret that a retention wall for ash containment at our Kingston Fossil Plant failed, resulting in an ash slide and damage to nearby homes," TVA said in a statement released Tuesday.
TVA spokesman Gil Francis told CNN that up to 400 acres of land had been coated by the sludge, a bigger area than the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill.
Video footage showed sludge as high as 6 feet, burying porches and garage doors. The slide also downed nearby power lines, though the TVA said power had been restored to the area.
Francis said Environmental Protection Agency officials were on the scene and estimated the cleanup could take four to six weeks.
Some of the goop spilled into the tributary, but preliminary water quality tests show that the drinking water at a nearby treatment plant meets standards.
"I don't want to drink it. It doesn't look healthy to me," Jody Miles, who fishes in the Clinch River, told CNN affiliate WBIR. "Do you reckon they can bring all this life back that's going to die from all this mess?"
Still, there is the potential for more sludge to enter the water supply through waste runoff.
"We're taking steps to stabilize runoff from this incident," Francis said.
Although video from the scene shows dead fish on the banks of the tributary, he said that "in terms of toxicity, until an analysis comes in, you can't call it toxic."
One environmental attorney called that statement "irresponsible." The ash that gives sludge its thick, pudding-like consistency in this case is known as fly ash, which results from the combustion of coal.
Fly ash contains concentrated amounts of mercury, arsenic and benzine, said Chandra Taylor, staff attorney for the Southern Environmental Law Center.
"These things are naturally occurring, but they concentrate in the burning process and the residual is more toxic than it starts," she told CNN.
Appalachian environmentalists compared the mess with another spill eight years ago in eastern Kentucky, where the bottom of a coal sludge impoundment owned by Massey Energy broke into an abandoned underground mine, oozing more than 300 million gallons of coal waste into tributaries.
The water supply for more than 25,000 residents was contaminated, and aquatic life in the area perished. It took months to clean up the spill.
"If the estimates are correct, this spill is one and a half times bigger," said Dave Cooper, an environmental advocate with the Mountaintop Removal Road Show, a traveling program that explains the effect of an extreme form of mining.
While the full scope of the TVA spill is being determined, coal critics are already concerned about its long-term effects.
Cleaning up the mess, which could fill nearly 800 Olympic-size swimming pools, could take months or years, Taylor said.
"We're very concerned about how long it's going to take" to clean the spill, she told CNN.
Cooper agreed, saying, "It's 4, 5 feet deep. How are you going to scoop it up? Where are you going to put it?"
End-Of-Year Personal Message from Maureen
On this last day of 2008 I want to thank you for your continued friendship and support and to tell you some of the aspects of my last year of public work. Yes, I’m retired and eager to attend to my home and urban farm—I hope—my only base of operations for the next thirty years!
Retired, I’m better able to attend to my duties with The Conservation Council of North Carolina, Sustainable Sandhills, and Save Our Sandhills, and I’ve recently joined the board of The Moore County Historical Association, where I’ll focus upon sustainable, heritage gardens at The Shaw House here in Southern Pines. Once I’ve gotten this urban farm up and running and have more time, I’ll join the volunteer gardeners at The Weymouth Center, where I’ve enjoyed being writer-in-residence off and on for the past twenty years. Who knows? Poetry skills may resurface once the jargon/babel of educationese subsides. . .
I’ve had a 12’x12’ Carolina room/greenhouse built on the deck, and my good friend Lyuba is designing a workable plan in the gardens. A language teacher from Russia, she is smart, strong as a horse, and so opinionated that she convinces me to clear mountains of useless furniture, books and files OUT of my house. The assault continues, she liking nothing so much as extracting order from chaos. Her daughter needed a project for high school graduation and has adopted my Farm Up the Street, will continue to work with her mom on my environs ‘til March, then turn in her portfolio. Marvelous to have two hard-working women in my gardens!
Son Gray completes Alexander Technique studies in June, when his girlfriend, Jessica Burns, also finishes her degree in Environmental Science at East Illinois U. They will return from Urbana to North Carolina to see what’s next. Most interested right now in soil rejuvenation using mycelia and compost, they will set up mushroom experiments in my backyard using cultures from Fungi Perfecti. See Mycelium Running by Paul Stamets.
Daughter Carley is married and living with husband Steve Lucci in Durham, NC, where she works and attends The Whole You Institute from which she’ll graduate in the spring. She has great hands, has worked on me with reiki, Swedish massage, aromatherapies and spinal alignments. See www.rwnaturalhealing.com for her product line. Her studies include nutrition, and, while perusing her books, I read Alkalize or Die by Baroody. I’ve ordered a copy and have started its dietary suggestions.
With nine or ten extra hours in a work day, I’m excited as a child in a candy shop. This town and this farm are all I need to stay busy and useful. I’ll continue vending at the Moore County Farmers Market, April-September, also leaving plants on consignment at the local seed/feed, where my worm tea—not for drinking, rather, a fertilizer--is a big seller. I have a bee hive for pollination, three Guinea hens wandering and keeping fleas, ticks, and such off the property, my cats and strays to keep rabbits and voles contained, ten laying hens—gorgeous Black Australorps—who give me about six eggs a day, various fruit trees, and long beds for vegetables and cut flowers. Drip lines and rain barrels supplement water for so many plantings and heavy composting keeps soils in place and full of nutrient, everything organic.
So! Having a good time here in Southern Pines, NC, with many progressive, like-minded friends to keep me focused. Maybe you noticed that NC turned Blue in the presidential elections, almost as exciting as having Obama elected. Expecting big changes! But we know that we must BE the changes we wish to see.
Retired, I’m better able to attend to my duties with The Conservation Council of North Carolina, Sustainable Sandhills, and Save Our Sandhills, and I’ve recently joined the board of The Moore County Historical Association, where I’ll focus upon sustainable, heritage gardens at The Shaw House here in Southern Pines. Once I’ve gotten this urban farm up and running and have more time, I’ll join the volunteer gardeners at The Weymouth Center, where I’ve enjoyed being writer-in-residence off and on for the past twenty years. Who knows? Poetry skills may resurface once the jargon/babel of educationese subsides. . .
I’ve had a 12’x12’ Carolina room/greenhouse built on the deck, and my good friend Lyuba is designing a workable plan in the gardens. A language teacher from Russia, she is smart, strong as a horse, and so opinionated that she convinces me to clear mountains of useless furniture, books and files OUT of my house. The assault continues, she liking nothing so much as extracting order from chaos. Her daughter needed a project for high school graduation and has adopted my Farm Up the Street, will continue to work with her mom on my environs ‘til March, then turn in her portfolio. Marvelous to have two hard-working women in my gardens!
Son Gray completes Alexander Technique studies in June, when his girlfriend, Jessica Burns, also finishes her degree in Environmental Science at East Illinois U. They will return from Urbana to North Carolina to see what’s next. Most interested right now in soil rejuvenation using mycelia and compost, they will set up mushroom experiments in my backyard using cultures from Fungi Perfecti. See Mycelium Running by Paul Stamets.
Daughter Carley is married and living with husband Steve Lucci in Durham, NC, where she works and attends The Whole You Institute from which she’ll graduate in the spring. She has great hands, has worked on me with reiki, Swedish massage, aromatherapies and spinal alignments. See www.rwnaturalhealing.com for her product line. Her studies include nutrition, and, while perusing her books, I read Alkalize or Die by Baroody. I’ve ordered a copy and have started its dietary suggestions.
With nine or ten extra hours in a work day, I’m excited as a child in a candy shop. This town and this farm are all I need to stay busy and useful. I’ll continue vending at the Moore County Farmers Market, April-September, also leaving plants on consignment at the local seed/feed, where my worm tea—not for drinking, rather, a fertilizer--is a big seller. I have a bee hive for pollination, three Guinea hens wandering and keeping fleas, ticks, and such off the property, my cats and strays to keep rabbits and voles contained, ten laying hens—gorgeous Black Australorps—who give me about six eggs a day, various fruit trees, and long beds for vegetables and cut flowers. Drip lines and rain barrels supplement water for so many plantings and heavy composting keeps soils in place and full of nutrient, everything organic.
So! Having a good time here in Southern Pines, NC, with many progressive, like-minded friends to keep me focused. Maybe you noticed that NC turned Blue in the presidential elections, almost as exciting as having Obama elected. Expecting big changes! But we know that we must BE the changes we wish to see.
GM Bt Corn vs. Honey Bees
Bee Learning Behavior Affected by Eating Toxin from GE Corn
By Ken Roseboro, ed.
The Organic and Non-GMO Report, December 2008
A recent study found that honey bees fed on the active form of purified Cry1Ab protein, the genetically modified protein found in GM Bt corn, can be affected in the learning responses necessary to associate nectar sources with odorants.
The scientists wanted to determine if GM Bt is one of the causes for colony collapse disorder, a mysterious affliction that is killing honeybees worldwide.
In this study bees consuming artificial nectar containing 5000ppb of Cry1Ab continued to respond positively to a learned odor even in the absence of a food reward, while normal bee behavior is to become discouraged and seek more abundant food sources.
This learning response is important in bee foraging behavior and it has attracted the attention of CCD researchers since it is known to be inhibited by the insecticide imidacloprid.
The new finding is particularly interesting since it lends weight to a previous suggestion that Bt toxins may have other, non-lethal effects which become apparent only when the normal (i.e. lethal) effect is absent. If there were to be multiple modes of Bt action then many more non-target organisms would likely be at risk from GM Bt corn. Bt Researcher Angelika Hilbeck says that more research is needed that looks at the impacts of both the Bt toxin and imidaclopid on bee behavior.
From Bee Culture, The Magazine Of American Beekeeping
www.BeeCulture.com
By Ken Roseboro, ed.
The Organic and Non-GMO Report, December 2008
A recent study found that honey bees fed on the active form of purified Cry1Ab protein, the genetically modified protein found in GM Bt corn, can be affected in the learning responses necessary to associate nectar sources with odorants.
The scientists wanted to determine if GM Bt is one of the causes for colony collapse disorder, a mysterious affliction that is killing honeybees worldwide.
In this study bees consuming artificial nectar containing 5000ppb of Cry1Ab continued to respond positively to a learned odor even in the absence of a food reward, while normal bee behavior is to become discouraged and seek more abundant food sources.
This learning response is important in bee foraging behavior and it has attracted the attention of CCD researchers since it is known to be inhibited by the insecticide imidacloprid.
The new finding is particularly interesting since it lends weight to a previous suggestion that Bt toxins may have other, non-lethal effects which become apparent only when the normal (i.e. lethal) effect is absent. If there were to be multiple modes of Bt action then many more non-target organisms would likely be at risk from GM Bt corn. Bt Researcher Angelika Hilbeck says that more research is needed that looks at the impacts of both the Bt toxin and imidaclopid on bee behavior.
From Bee Culture, The Magazine Of American Beekeeping
www.BeeCulture.com
12/30/2008
From BBC
Artistic clues to coastal change *How 200-year-old paintings can help modern engineers deal with coastal erosion, a study shows.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7790416.stm
Smiles and scowls 'in our genes' *The facial expressions we make to show or hide our emotions are hardwired into our brains, a study concludes.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/health/7798687.stm
'Huge year for natural disasters' *Losses from natural disasters rose by 50% in 2008, underlining need for action on climate change, re-insurers Munich Re say.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/business/7803624.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7790416.stm
Smiles and scowls 'in our genes' *The facial expressions we make to show or hide our emotions are hardwired into our brains, a study concludes.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/health/7798687.stm
'Huge year for natural disasters' *Losses from natural disasters rose by 50% in 2008, underlining need for action on climate change, re-insurers Munich Re say.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/business/7803624.stm
12/19/2008
Climate Hangs on Coal
Climate outcome 'hangs on coal' *If the growth in CO2 emissions is to be constrained, the world cannot afford a coal renaissance, a major scientific meeting is told.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7789249.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/go/em/-/2/hi/science/nature/7789249.stm
12/18/2008
Most Important Number on Earth
http://www.motherjones.com/news/feature/2008/11/the-most-important-number-on-earth.html?welcome=true
12/16/2008
12/10/2008
12/03/2008
Sustainable Ag at USDA, Please!
The Obama Administration will be appointing a lot of positions at the US Dept. of Agriculture, and this creates a great opportunity for the incoming President to make good on his pledge of change. Putting people who care about sustainable ag at the top in USDA would be a welcome change indeed.
The website below provides information on some strong candidates for key USDA posts, and has a sample letter for use in submitting your suggestions to both the Obama transition team and the NC and SC congressional delegations. Please review these candidates and considering weighing in on this highly important subject.
http://asap.sustainability.uiuc.edu/members/rebeccaroach/citizen-groups-lobby-to-shape-obamas-usda-posts/
The site has a link for submitting your letter to the Obama transition team. Contact info and/or links for Carolina Senators and Congresspeople is below.
You will find several past CFSA Sustainable Agriculture Conference keynote speakers on the list. In addition, we are aware that Jim Riddle, a frequent SAC speaker and friend to family-scale organic farmers, is a candidate for an appointed position with the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service, which oversees the National Organic Program.
Please take time to help our community influence these critical personnel decisions.
Thanks
Roland
PS: Although Michael Pollan’s name has been floated for the position of Secretary of Agriculture, he has said publicly that he would not accept the appointment.
Rep. Bob Etheridge (NC, 2d Dist) Rep. Mike McIntyre (NC, 7th Dist)
Phone: 202-225-4531 Phone: 202-225-2731
Fax: 202-225-5662 Fax: 202-225-5773
Ag Aide: Benjamin Bell Ag Aide: Kim
Sega
Sen. Lindsey Graham (SC)
Phone: 202-224-5972
Fax: 202-224-3808
Ag Aide: Laura Bauld
For contact info for other Members of the NC and SC Congressional Delegations, visit:
North Carolina: Senate Members
Kay Hagan, D- North Carolina, http://www.kayhagan.com/pages/contact
Burr, Richard R- North Carolina
Representatives
Butterfield, G.K., D-North Carolina, 1st
Jones, Walter B., R-North Carolina, 3rd
Price, David, D-North Carolina, 4th
Foxx, Virginia, R-North Carolina, 5th
Coble, Howard, R-North Carolina, 6th
Myrick, Sue, R-North Carolina, 9th
McHenry, Patrick T., R-North Carolina, 10th
Shuler, Heath, D-North Carolina, 11th
Watt, Mel, D-North Carolina, 12th
Miller, Brad, D-North Carolina, 13th
Larry Kissell, D-North Carolina, 8th, http://www.larrykissell.com/
South Carolina: Senate Members
DeMint Jim R- South Carolina
Representatives
Brown, Henry, R-South Carolina, 1st
Wilson, Joe, R-South Carolina, 2nd
Barrett, J.Gresham, R-South Carolina, 3rd
Inglis, Bob, R-South Carolina, 4th
Spratt, John, D-South Carolina, 5th
Clyburn, James E., D-South Carolina, 6th
Roland McReynolds, Esq
CFSA Executive Director
PO Box 448
Pittsboro, NC 27312
Ph: 919-542-2402
Fax: 919-542-7401
www.carolinafarmstewards.org
The website below provides information on some strong candidates for key USDA posts, and has a sample letter for use in submitting your suggestions to both the Obama transition team and the NC and SC congressional delegations. Please review these candidates and considering weighing in on this highly important subject.
http://asap.sustainability.uiuc.edu/members/rebeccaroach/citizen-groups-lobby-to-shape-obamas-usda-posts/
The site has a link for submitting your letter to the Obama transition team. Contact info and/or links for Carolina Senators and Congresspeople is below.
You will find several past CFSA Sustainable Agriculture Conference keynote speakers on the list. In addition, we are aware that Jim Riddle, a frequent SAC speaker and friend to family-scale organic farmers, is a candidate for an appointed position with the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service, which oversees the National Organic Program.
Please take time to help our community influence these critical personnel decisions.
Thanks
Roland
PS: Although Michael Pollan’s name has been floated for the position of Secretary of Agriculture, he has said publicly that he would not accept the appointment.
Rep. Bob Etheridge (NC, 2d Dist) Rep. Mike McIntyre (NC, 7th Dist)
Phone: 202-225-4531 Phone: 202-225-2731
Fax: 202-225-5662 Fax: 202-225-5773
Ag Aide: Benjamin Bell Ag Aide: Kim
Sega
Sen. Lindsey Graham (SC)
Phone: 202-224-5972
Fax: 202-224-3808
Ag Aide: Laura Bauld
For contact info for other Members of the NC and SC Congressional Delegations, visit:
North Carolina: Senate Members
Kay Hagan, D- North Carolina, http://www.kayhagan.com/pages/contact
Burr, Richard R- North Carolina
Representatives
Butterfield, G.K., D-North Carolina, 1st
Jones, Walter B., R-North Carolina, 3rd
Price, David, D-North Carolina, 4th
Foxx, Virginia, R-North Carolina, 5th
Coble, Howard, R-North Carolina, 6th
Myrick, Sue, R-North Carolina, 9th
McHenry, Patrick T., R-North Carolina, 10th
Shuler, Heath, D-North Carolina, 11th
Watt, Mel, D-North Carolina, 12th
Miller, Brad, D-North Carolina, 13th
Larry Kissell, D-North Carolina, 8th, http://www.larrykissell.com/
South Carolina: Senate Members
DeMint Jim R- South Carolina
Representatives
Brown, Henry, R-South Carolina, 1st
Wilson, Joe, R-South Carolina, 2nd
Barrett, J.Gresham, R-South Carolina, 3rd
Inglis, Bob, R-South Carolina, 4th
Spratt, John, D-South Carolina, 5th
Clyburn, James E., D-South Carolina, 6th
Roland McReynolds, Esq
CFSA Executive Director
PO Box 448
Pittsboro, NC 27312
Ph: 919-542-2402
Fax: 919-542-7401
www.carolinafarmstewards.org
12/02/2008
Job Opening with Conservation Council of NC
GLOBAL WARMING PROJECT COORDINATOR
The Conservation Council of North Carolina (CCNC) seeks an experienced organizer to serve as the full-time Project Coordinator for their joint partnership with the League of Conservation Voters Education Fund Global Warming Project.
In 2007, LCVEF, in partnership with state partners, launched a major campaign to elevate global warming in the 2008 presidential primaries. The Heat Is On campaign (www.heatison.org) was active in the early-voting states for more than a year. In 2008-2009, LCVEF & CCNC plan to work to make global warming a top priority for citizens, and particularly for North Carolina’s congressional delegation.
The Project Coordinator will oversee the day-to-day planning and implementation of our program.
The Project Coordinator will work closely with CCNC’s staff and coalition partners to coordinate state-level activities, conduct outreach to opinion leaders, generate earned media, and engage voters and the congressional delegation about the urgency and importance of global warming.
Responsibilities:
• Work with CCNC staff and LCVEF staff to develop and implement a year-long plan to elevate global warming as a top-tier priority in North Carolina
• Work with coalition partners to coordinate outreach and organizing efforts
• Meet with opinion leaders (reporters, editorial boards, state elected officials, donors, etc.) to engage them on the threats and opportunities associated with climate change
• Conduct outreach to non-traditional allies concerned about global warming
Qualifications:
The ideal candidates will have a college degree and several years experience in organizing and advocacy. Skills should include:
• Strong communication skills including public speaking and advocacy writing
• Strong networking skills
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced campaign environment
• Familiarity with the issue of global warming an asset
• Strong leadership skills to build and maintain a team
• Basic computer skills
Position:
The Project Coordinator is a full-time position starting January and running through 2009. The position will be based in Raleigh, NC.
Interested Applicants: Please submit a letter of interest and resume to:
ccnc@conservationcouncilnc.org with the subject heading: NC Project Coordinator
Deadline: Applications will be accepted through December 12th, 2008
http://www.conservationcouncilnc.org
http://www.heatison.org
Conservation Council of North Carolina is an equal opportunity employer
The Conservation Council of North Carolina (CCNC) seeks an experienced organizer to serve as the full-time Project Coordinator for their joint partnership with the League of Conservation Voters Education Fund Global Warming Project.
In 2007, LCVEF, in partnership with state partners, launched a major campaign to elevate global warming in the 2008 presidential primaries. The Heat Is On campaign (www.heatison.org) was active in the early-voting states for more than a year. In 2008-2009, LCVEF & CCNC plan to work to make global warming a top priority for citizens, and particularly for North Carolina’s congressional delegation.
The Project Coordinator will oversee the day-to-day planning and implementation of our program.
The Project Coordinator will work closely with CCNC’s staff and coalition partners to coordinate state-level activities, conduct outreach to opinion leaders, generate earned media, and engage voters and the congressional delegation about the urgency and importance of global warming.
Responsibilities:
• Work with CCNC staff and LCVEF staff to develop and implement a year-long plan to elevate global warming as a top-tier priority in North Carolina
• Work with coalition partners to coordinate outreach and organizing efforts
• Meet with opinion leaders (reporters, editorial boards, state elected officials, donors, etc.) to engage them on the threats and opportunities associated with climate change
• Conduct outreach to non-traditional allies concerned about global warming
Qualifications:
The ideal candidates will have a college degree and several years experience in organizing and advocacy. Skills should include:
• Strong communication skills including public speaking and advocacy writing
• Strong networking skills
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced campaign environment
• Familiarity with the issue of global warming an asset
• Strong leadership skills to build and maintain a team
• Basic computer skills
Position:
The Project Coordinator is a full-time position starting January and running through 2009. The position will be based in Raleigh, NC.
Interested Applicants: Please submit a letter of interest and resume to:
ccnc@conservationcouncilnc.org with the subject heading: NC Project Coordinator
Deadline: Applications will be accepted through December 12th, 2008
http://www.conservationcouncilnc.org
http://www.heatison.org
Conservation Council of North Carolina is an equal opportunity employer
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